A long time ago, but still functional: the sextant. It also works without high-tech
A GPS in almost every device is as normal for us today as a phone was in the 1970s. Of course, we always know where we are at all times. But what if the service doesn't work? Or is it even deliberately manipulated? That means spoofing. And it is absolutely reality or at least technically possible. This has not only been clear since James Bond's "Tomorrow Never Dies", in which a media mogul triggered an international crisis by manipulating the GPS signal, which he can then be the first to report. A report on possible GPS malfunctions and the alternatives to the system.
AIS also needs a GPS signal - at least if it should send its own position into the ether. But that's not what the test is about. We compare AIS receivers that display the positions of other road users on yachts on the plotter or PC screen. And by the way, it explains how such a device is correctly connected and what to look out for.
As a supplement to AIS, a radar makes perfect sense, at least if you are going on long journeys in or in inhospitable areas. Because many road users do not send their position via AIS. The same applies to all navigation marks or port entrances and storm fronts. And yes, icebergs are also visible on the radar - but not on the AIS. But you do not necessarily have to go to such areas if you are concerned with the topic of your own yacht. Round-the-world sailor Sönke Roever gives tips on what to watch out for when using radar devices. He gives an exclusive insight into his new book "Blauwasser compact".
Raymarine's new Quantum Radar Antenna with Chirp Technology
In order to be better prepared when buying a radar device, the Navi-Spezial is rounded off by a market overview of radar devices. Broadband, chirp and WiFi are the terms that are currently on everyone's lips. What they mean and what to look out for when buying, is of course in the overview.
So if you are currently dealing with the topic of "seeing and being seen on the water", be yours Issue 5/2016 of YACHT recommended that from February 17th is ready at the kiosk.